MUSCAT : His Highness Sayyid Bilarab was briefed on the Ministry’s 2026 executive plan for Muscat Governorate during a meeting on Tuesday, March 2, with His Excellency Dr. Mohammed bin Said Al Maamari, Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs.

The plan outlines strategic projects and performance targets aligned with Oman Vision 2040, focusing on developing the religious and endowment sector, enhancing institutional efficiency and expanding the societal impact of religious services.

During the presentation, the Ministry confirmed that 2026 has been designated the ‘Year of Excellence’, with an emphasis on governance, sustainability, measurable performance and quality standards. The strategy prioritises governance of the religious sector, promotion of moderate religious discourse, optimal investment of endowments, development of Zakat resources and expansion of digital transformation and e-services.

According to figures presented, Muscat Governorate has more than 1,216 mosques and prayer facilities. Annual beneficiaries of religious and preaching programmes exceed 1.75 million, while more than 21,000 students are enrolled in Quran learning programmes. Zakat disbursements to eligible families surpassed RO 3.5 million, underscoring the sector’s role in social support and community development.

The meeting also reviewed key projects planned for 2026, including the provision of 400 religious positions for job seekers, the establishment of a Prophet’s Biography Museum, mosque and prayer hall development projects, preparation of a governance guide for Zakat institutions, improved services for Omani pilgrims in Mina, and the launch of a unified electronic services application. Reconstruction support for mosques and Quranic schools is also planned.

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